MoD to extend under-achiever initiative

An army skills initiative for under-achieving school
children has proved so successful that it is being rolled out across the
country this autumn.

The Ministry of Defence’s Skills Force initiative will soon
be operating in 47 schools, giving over 1,200 youngsters the chance to develop
practical skills that will improve their employment prospects.

Children on the pilot scheme run in Newcastle and Norfolk
have improved their attendance, attitude and overall academic performance.

The scheme is aimed at 14-to-16-year-olds and offers them
the chance to gain a range of qualifications including the Duke of Edinburgh
Awards and St John Ambulance certificates.

The children on the course drop two GCSE subjects in favour
of more vocational training which is conducted by recently retired military
instructors.